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patriotism spurred by the southern attack on a fort of
the United States. Not one to be easily discouraged,
and passionately believing in the cause of the Union,
Mac took on the task of raising a troop of volunteers to
join the ranks of the 107th Pennsylvania Volunteers.
In a letter home, Mac wrote:
Camp Curtain
Harrisburg
Feb. 24th 1862
Dear Aunt Bell,
...It is with feelings of great pleasure, I am at
length enabled to inform you my troubles are
over as far as recruiting is concerned. Was
mustered in last Thursday and am now on pay
receiving $4 daily, which you know is better
than to be expending that amt. daily.
A great burden is off my shoulders and I really
feel relieved. I certainly have had a good
struggle. Have had the "blues" more than
once. Perseverance has enabled me to
overcome all obstacles and I now have the